TWO days after the national and local elections that were described as generally peaceful, the PNP yesterday downgraded its alert status to heightened alert from full alert.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Randulf Tuaño said policemen will now return to performing regular law enforcement functions.
“We have downgraded (our alert status). From full alert, we’re now on heightened alert status,” said Tuaño.
Tuaño added that police regional directors have the discretion if they want to retain the full alert status in their respective areas.
“After performing election-related duties, (policemen) may now return or concentrate on performing regular (law enforcement) duties,” said Tuaño.
Tuaño said there were 49 validated election-related incidents (ERIs) recorded since January 12, when the election period began, leading to the death of 13 people.
Tuaño said 27 of these incidents occurred on election day last Monday.
The validated ERIs are fewer compared to the 105 ERIs recorded during the 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. However, it is higher compared to the 27 ERIs recorded during the 2022 national and local elections.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil attributed the decrease to intensified security operations, close coordination with the Commission on Elections and the AFP, and proactive deployment of personnel to election areas of concern.
“This downward trend in poll-related incidents is a testament to our commitment to uphold the President’s vision of a democratic process that is free from fear, intimidation, and violence,” said Marbil.
“Our police officers have been relentless in their duty to protect the sanctity of the ballot and ensure public safety,” the PNP chief added.
